UofL researchers strive to extend the storage life of blood

UofL researchers are looking for ways to extend the shelf life of blood.

The blood that millions of people donate daily can only be stored up to six weeks before it must be used in a transfusion. In order to extend the shelf life of blood, UofL researchers are testing a new method that will potentially improve the world’s blood supply.

Through grants provided by UofL and the National Institute of Health, researchers Jonathan Kopechek and Michael Menze are trying to find out if they can freeze or dry blood into a powder then “bring it back to life” months later by adding liquid. If successful, the scientists believe their discovery could solve blood shortage problems on the battlefield or in remote medical centers.